Sunday 05 / April / 2026
Muscat: The 16th Muscat International Oncology Conference, organized by Omani Society of Oncology and the National Oncology Centre in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre, discussed today the latest developments in immunotherapy and targeted therapy, along with the most prominent global research findings in oncology.
The opening of the conference was held under the auspices of Dr. Saleh Salim Al Rahbi, Advisor at the Diwan of Royal Court.
At the conclusion of its activities, the conference underscored the importance of relying on advanced genetic testing, such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), to determine disease prognosis and select the most appropriate treatment for each case. It also emphasized the necessity of keeping pace with and implementing global recommendations and guidelines, particularly those issued by American and European authorities.
The conference underlined the advanced role of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in improving treatment outcomes for lung and breast cancers, in addition to several other tumors. It also highlighted the importance of enhancing multidisciplinary teamwork to ensure the provision of integrated therapeutic care in accordance with the latest scientific standards.
Furthermore, the conference called for the need to continue supporting scientific research and international cooperation, which contributes to improving the quality of healthcare and raising recovery rates among oncology patients.
The event was preceded by a series of scientific workshops and specialized training sessions that focused on the latest updates in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors. These sessions saw the participation of an elite group of experts and consultants from within the Sultanate of Oman and abroad, contributing to the exchange of expertise and the enhancement of medical staff knowledge.
The conference witnessed broad participation from leading oncology experts representing Oman, Europe, the United States of America and the People’s Republic of China, alongside regional leaders from several countries. This high-level scientific gathering reflects the rapid progress in the field of oncology and promotes the exchange of expertise and knowledge in one of the most precise medical specialties.
Discussions focused on reviewing the latest therapeutic strategies, particularly in the fields of immunotherapy and targeted therapy, with an emphasis on updates in the treatment of lung cancer across its various stages. It additionally addressed the latest global research findings in breast cancer treatment and reviewed the most prominent recommendations issued by major international conferences, keeping pace with the rapid developments in this vital field.
The working papers and scientific discussions among the experts addressed the most significant developments witnessed over the past year that have begun to make a tangible impact on daily clinical practice. These dialogues are expected to enrich medical knowledge and enhance the quality of care provided to patients.
Dr. Suad Sulaiman Al Kharousi, Chairperson of the Omani Society of Oncology, affirmed that this scientific event has been a pivotal milestone in the journey of oncology in the Gulf region since its inception in 2009.
She explained that organizing the conference is the result of integration between the Omani Society of Oncology and the National Oncology Centre, in cooperation with the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre. This reflects the keenness of health institutions to unify efforts and integrate roles to develop therapeutic services.
Al Kharousi indicated that holding the conference amidst current global challenges—whether geopolitical, health-related, or climatic—embodies a firm belief in the importance of continuing the scientific journey without interruption. She noted that the organizing committee successfully overcame numerous challenges, just as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic and previous severe weather conditions.
She added that the conference seeks to present the latest scientific advancements in oncology treatments, which positively reflects on improving patient outcomes.
She highlighted the hosting of a distinguished group of international experts from Oman, the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), and Ireland, alongside regional leaders from Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.
Al Kharousi noted that the working papers and scientific discussions focus on the most prominent developments of the past year that now have a direct impact on daily clinical practice, expressing her confidence that these dialogues will contribute to achieving added scientific value and prove beneficial for all participants.
The opening ceremony included a visual presentation and a lecture addressing the role of community support in serving cancer patients.
The conference discussed several advanced scientific themes, encompassing recent innovations in early diagnosis, clinical trials, and global best practices in cancer patient care, thereby contributing to the development of healthcare quality and enhancing the efficiency of the therapeutic system.
Considered the most prominent specialized scientific event in the region, Muscat International Oncology Conference serves as a leading platform for exchanging knowledge and promoting scientific research. It strongly supports the Sultanate of Oman's efforts to elevate its healthcare system and achieve the best therapeutic outcomes for patients according to the latest global standards.
Dr. Saleh Salim Al Rahbi, the chief guest of the event, toured the exhibition of participating companies, which showcased the latest technologies and therapeutic solutions in the field of oncology.
